In this episode our AI hosts provide a comprehensive guide to the 400m hurdles. It's your Introduction to Coaching the 400m Hurdles Masterclass!

We explore the technical and tactical aspects of the event, starting with a breakdown of the requirements for success and drills to help athletes develop them. The episode then details the mechanics of a successful hurdle clearance, emphasising the need for a smooth, efficient sprinting action, both between and over the hurdles.

Finally, the hosts look at the essential elements of coaching the event. Including planning, injury prevention, drill progressions, cueing and more.

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Coaching the 400m Hurdles

This episode discusses Athletics Australia's "Strength for Sprinting" guide, exploring the concept of specificity in strength training and highlighting how different training parameters can influence the transfer of gym gains to sprinting performance.

The article examines five key factors: velocity, muscle group, muscle action, direction of force, and joint angle, demonstrating how training must be tailored to these specific aspects to maximise performance improvement. It argues that strength training should mirror the demands of sprinting, emphasising exercises that replicate the high-velocity, multi-joint movements and specific muscle activation patterns required for optimal speed and power.

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• Strength for Sprinting - Connecting Gym Gains with Sprinting Performance

Download the full guide with demonstration of the stretches and exercises here

This conversation explores findings published in the journal Advances in Physical Education, examining the importance of hip mobility and flexibility for track and field athletes.

The authors argue that restricted hip range of motion can lead to muscle imbalances and injuries, highlighting the prevalence of injuries in non-contact sports.

The article presents a program of nine mobility exercises and six flexibility exercises, with accompanying images, intended to improve hip range of motion and athletic performance.